Identification of a Human Type XVII Collagen Fragment with High Capacity for Maintaining Skin Health

Researchers identified a fragment of human type XVII collagen (COL17), named sample-1707, which demonstrated significant potential for maintaining skin health and promoting hair follicle stem cell (HFSC) differentiation. Sample-1707 formed a stable triple-helix structure, assembled into nanofibers, and created a strong hydrogel when combined with chitosan. It promoted blood clotting, osteoblast differentiation, and HFSC differentiation, indicating its potential for skin cell regeneration and wound healing. Large-scale production was feasible, with a yield of 600 mg/L in a 5-L bioreactor, supporting its use in the skin care industry.